By Carol Leish –
“There are only four kinds of people in this world: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.” — Rosalynn Carter
The Ventura County Caregiver Coalition’s mission is to advocate for and empower caregivers by ensuring accessible, supportive services are available to those who care for loved ones. The coalition emphasizes a simple truth: If you provide care for someone you love, you are a caregiver.
Caregivers assist neighbors, family members and friends who may be facing medical challenges, mental health conditions, substance use disorders, developmental disabilities or dementia. Many people do not realize they are caregivers, yet the role is one that touches nearly everyone at some point in life.
According to AARP, by 2030, 77 million Americans will be age 65 or older and face increasing risks of chronic conditions that can make independent living difficult. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 20% of adults ages 45 to 64 expect to become family caregivers during their lifetime.
Members of the Ventura County Caregiver Coalition include the Alzheimer’s Association; Area Agency on Aging; Community Caregivers; Coast Caregivers Resource Center; Compassionate Care Faith Community Coalition; Community Memorial Healthcare; Camarillo Health Care District; Oxnard Family Circle; Promotoras y Promotores; Senior Concerns; and the Ventura County Community Foundation.
Work groups within the coalition focus on advocacy and policy development, resource and care pathway creation, and systemwide improvements. Their efforts include studying and adapting caregiver support models to better serve the evolving needs of caregivers throughout the county.
To learn more about caregiving resources available in Ventura County, visit the Ventura County Human Services Agency website, which provides access to local support services and statewide organizations such as the California Alliance of Caregivers, offering extensive information and advocacy. The Ventura County Community Foundation also provides caregiving resources and information.
